Solid Fuel
Engines
•Solid fuel engines (SRB’s in the shuttle program) are as the name suggests, a solid “dry” fuel. Two were used
on each shuttle launch.
•A scenario where a solid fuel can be an advantage is when
you might need to launch with no prior preparation. For example, nuclear missiles ready to launch on
command inside a silo.
•A downside is that solid fuel can not easily be
extinguished or relighted. Only recently has this been accomplished with
some varied success. Solid fuel also can not be throttled. However, limited
steering is possible.
Actual Shuttle SRB Test Firing
Orion Launch Abort System
